The Chronicle understands that Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough are possible suitors for Ameobi’s signature this summer.

Ameobi has told Nigeria he is once again available for selection at international level – something that Alan Pardew wasn’t comfortable with because he needed the centre-forward as cover last season.

But while Pardew was happy to offer Ameobi a new deal last term, the striker wanted to consider other options, with regular first-team football on his wish-list as he moves into the latter stages of his career.

It is believed that Ameobi’s departure would shave around £22,000 a week off Newcastle’s weekly wage bill.

And although Championship clubs wouldn’t be able to offer Ameobi that type of wage, they would be able to give him the security of a longer deal.

His current contract expires at the end of the coming season.

United remain in the hunt for two strikers this summer, but Kinnear has made no secret of the fact that there would be tough decisions to be made on the outgoing front. And that means that United could bring the curtain down on Ameobi’s 13-year career at St James’ Park.

Indeed, on his arrival Kinnear admitted that he would carry out a thorough review of the “strengths and weaknesses” at United.

Back then Kinnear, who has not carried out any interviews for almost a month, said: “We will assess every player we have here.” Kinnear returns from a pre-arranged family break today and it is expected that Dan Gosling’s move to Crystal Palace is also set to be pushed through in the next couple of days.

The director of football has already sanctioned the exit of utility man James Perch, who signed for Championship side Wigan Athletic. And Newcastle’s quest for a new central defender may also trigger a further departure in Mike Williamson.

United’s move to sign former FC Twente defender Douglas fell through, while Alan Pardew still wants to sign West Ham’s James Tomkins.

The Magpies were linked with a move for Portuguese defender Rolando of Porto over the weekend.

Yet United are still believed to be keen on signing players younger than the 27-year-old.

Williamson has a move to Premier League new boys Cardiff City in the offing, and that deal is likely to go through should United pick up one of their other defensive targets.